DISQUS

richdixon · 2 months ago

What??!?? This didn't just happen magically because of your charm and good looks? I'm shocked! I thought people just sent you bags of money.

This is effective communication without all of the fancy bells and whistles. One minute of amateur video makes your point better than a few thousand carefully-crafted words.

One of the great things about the way you use your platform is that you just put yourself out there--wysiwyg. Above any content, that's what I learn from this circle. Thanks.

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

It's all I have right now. That and love.

Deb Ng · 2 months ago

Thank you for showing us another side of Chris Brogan and another side of success. I'm sure people see your book, your blog and your life and feel you have it all. You do, but there's a tradeoff.

You asked "What would you tell the people who say that you make it look easy? Let’s talk about your overnight success, shall we? "

Though my success is not quite the caliber of yours -My overnight success took more than four years. Last month it was Los Angeles, today it's Las Vegas. I'm going to sleep without hugs and kisses goodnight. I'm missing out on that first thing off the school bus hug, and I'm sleeping on planes. Is it worth it? Last week a major online brand asked if they could buy my blog, so I must be doing something right. I work out of my home, talking about my passion. How many others can say the same? Is it worth spending 18 hours a day behind a laptop or sleeping on planes? We'll see.... I feel with success comes responsibility. It's what you make of it. Many people become an overnight success, not many people handle it well. Chris, you remember the things that are truly important, I think you'll continue to handle your success well.

MSchechter · 2 months ago

Still amazed that people can read your blog, follow along with all you are doing and still think "Chris Brogan" and those like you happened by accident. Although one of these days you and Gary Vee and everyone out there who can be everywhere at once need to write a post telling us how the hell to get everything that needs to get done to be a Trust Agent and Crush it while not having your wife shoot you and be there for your kids :). I've said it once, I'll say it again, I dont know how you do what you do!

Stew Shaw · 1 week ago

"...need to write a post telling us how the hell to get everything that needs to get done..." @garyvee has already done that, given us his secret method - plain old hustling thru the night, personally answering every incoming tweet and email. Approaching a million followers too! And he's already @ replied to little 'ol me.
You, and I, rightly wonder how these powerhouse guys do it with a young family. Again look at Gary's #1 rule - love your family, and we can see he does. There's a severe cost if you don't - see (via my twitter profile) a commentary blogpost I wrote about social media gurus and their failed marriages. Chris truly GETS social media, and I love his Overnight Success series. New to the internet community I salute his tireless work and am totally inspired by his incredible experience and wisdom that he passes on everywhere he goes.

Barry Moltz · 2 months ago

Yeah, I always say that most overnight success takes 7-10 years!

koodooz · 2 months ago

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." (Thomas Edison)

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Awesome quote!

TCMerge · 1 month ago

I love this quote, but people have to "try" to succeed at least....this means not letting fear get the best of them. Too many people who could be very successful, are hindered by fear!

Stephanie Quilao · 2 months ago

This post really hit home. People ask me often how I got 45K+ Twitter Followers so fast and I tell them that before getting picked to be on the Suggested User list I was on Twitter for almost 2 years tweeting quality content & building community consistently that whole time. There's no shortcut. Work, commitment, purpose, and consistency is required. And once you get that success, there is keeping & maintaining it, a whole other post :)

migwickert · 2 months ago

wow, that's nuts. :) Congrats on your following.

Bill Cammack · 2 months ago

100% WITH YOU on this one, Chris, haha. Speak The Truth! :D

People ask me all the time HOW I'm such a Google Monster. They think there's a trick, because people are selling trickery these days. The fact is that I think up my own content, produce my own blogs, audio and video, post them to my own blog, point people TO my blog and then do it again tomorrow.

If you want to be "me", you have to be willing to put in the hours.. Which most people are not. I'm writing this @ 7:24 am, when most people are on their 39th wink. When I wake up, I'm thinking about my online presence, because it's important to me. I enjoy expressing myself online and I enjoy the conversations people come to me with IRL because they read something I wrote or watched a video I was in.

If you want to be "me, NOW", you have to blog for 2-3 years straight on a topic that people want to read about and search for on Google. If you're not willing to do that, you can forget it. And I'm not even claiming to be a success as far as blogging. I'm successful in other things and the advice is the same.. Devote yourself to learning your craft, experimenting and using that time that you would have been goofing off to improve yourself and make yourself an authority in your field and EVENTUALLY, you'll get your props.

It only SEEMS LIKE overnight to people that didn't know what you've been doing for the past several years.

sazbean · 2 months ago

Every time I use your blog and social media as an example, I make sure people know how long you've been working at it. Which I think is the same for anyone who has had success online (Gary Vaynerchuk, Darren Rowse, John Jantsch, etc.) - it takes a lot of hard work and a lot of patience. Unfortunately I think that some of these "$10k in 30 day" schemes have people thinking that the Internet is some place where they print money to hand out....

craftyGAgal · 2 months ago

Absolutely so true. People what to be where you or other hard workers are but do not want to put in the work. They also believe that once you reach a certain level it is smooth sailing but so not true... it take work to keep catching the wind in the sails, just like real sailing.
Great post, awesome video and must say you look better than me after just a couple hours sleep. LOVE that you connect with your kids, despite the time, despite the schedule, despite the life... that is the mark of a true success to me.
Bravo Chris!

Daniel Decker · 2 months ago

You are dead on. Every successful person I know has a work ethic that is borderline insane, but it’s not insane when the work you do is something you believe in enough to pour your life into it. Overnight success is doing the things most others aren't willing to do. They don't see those things because they are off watching TV, sleeping in, playing around, and watching life pass by. They just see the fruit, not the process of planting the crop... working the land and the time in between. Everyone wants the fruit but most aren't willing to start by getting their hands dirty to plant a seed then spend the time and effort in nurturing it to grow. The Dip in between is too hard for most to overcome and that’s sad.

Donna Kastner · 2 months ago

Great message today... You've given us lots to think about.

When you're passionate about your message - as you are, Chris - I have to think that helps fuel the engines. Still, even the most passionate, talented and successful person must come dangerously close to burnout every now & then. At what point can you know it's okay to move from Overnight Success Builder to Established Successful Guy who gets a little more sleep and has a little more chill time?

Stew Shaw · 1 week ago

The trouble with being an Established Successful Guy like Chris is that the whole world wants him at once. So he goes straight from a convention in Atlanta to Paris to deliver a 20 minute talk then straight back to the US to consult to his high end clients, and on and on. There's no chill time for a social media evangelist. Gary Vee's treading the same boards. Want to help them get more sleep? Step up and spread the same message.

Georgia North · 2 months ago

This post, and one you posted last month that included your schedule: http://www.chrisbrogan.com/the-shape-of-my-game/ , and simply trying to follow you around(read all that you write, search for and watch all the conference vids and interviews), allows one to form a pretty clear image of what it takes to KEEP all that "overnight success" on track. I truly appreciate the insight. Not only is it amazing to watch, but it sheds a real light, and tempers my own ambition and goal sets. What gets me about you, and what really matters is the payoff. I know you to be happiest when you hear about another's success or triumph,...even more so I'd guess, if you were a part. I hope to enjoy more and more of that. I have almost no desire to see the inside of 1000 taxis and the empty lobby of as many hotels in cities not my own. You do good work, and your sacrifice is depended upon and appreciated by many. If and when somebody ever says that about me, I'll count myself an overnight success too!

Tom Rau · 2 months ago

You are right Chris. Overnight success does not happen. The only reason why this seems to happen is because most of the companies are simply not in our focus before they are getting media attention. It's continued hard work and networking that gets you there.
Knowing people helps to open doors but in the end you need to be able to perform.

I think this (at least to me) unknown quote is quite suitable:
"There is no elevator to success. You have to take the stairs."

Thanks

Ricardo Bueno · 2 months ago

Chris, I don't mean to drop links into your comment box but I'm going to share this one because I think it's relevant:

http://sethsimonds.com/stop-waiting

To quote you:
"Overnight success doesn't sleep in, overnight success doesn't have a hobby..."

Well, that post combined with yours is a kick in the ass to get up and get moving. Because the things you wanna accomplish in life aren't going to magically take care of themselves. There is no staples easy button. At the end of the day, you determine your success by the actions you take day-in and day-out.

Thanks for the motivation my friend. Travel safe and in the words of Gary V., "Crush It" (or continue to anyway)...

migwickert · 2 months ago

Thanks for sharing the link! :)

Rodney Rumford · 2 months ago

Most overnight success companies actually take years. ;) And the harder you work the luckier you get. People rarely see the 18 hour days that it takes. ;)

Cheers to you!

rockandrollmama · 2 months ago

Preach it, brother. You'll get an amen from me.:)

jillanderson · 2 months ago

Thank you for sharing Chris. Great video. I am wondering how you taped this clip? Is someone walking with you or are you doing this yourself? How??

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

I shot it myself walking backwards with the camera at arm's length. : )

Timberland shoes · 2 months ago

I really like what you said.

Ari Herzog · 2 months ago

What sort of camera are you using?

jillanderson · 2 months ago

Well done. I need longer arms. :-)

Nicole France · 2 months ago

Very well said! I understand how hard you work, I am in the same boat working 12-14 hours each day to collaborate and inspire others to use social media as a way to influence and build a positive reputation.... to add to it all I am raising 5 kids under the age of 13 by myself.

David S. · 2 months ago

Very powerful. What is so often noted as luck or the right place at the right time is noting more than hard work and sacrifice. You are an inspiration for achievement and how to achieve and this should be shown to everyone in the U.S!

Lori Hoeck · 2 months ago

Love the reality check, the insight, and the honesty.

CAREEREALISM · 2 months ago

I hear you 200% Chris! I've also had people say this about me: "She can handle it. She's always is able to do that kind of stuff easily." That really tweaks me! It makes me feel like they are purposely trying to diminish my achievements as something that I didn't earn through hard work and sacrifice. I realize the difference is I don't look at work as 'work' - so I always end up taking a deep breath and reminding myself that I'm lucky I've found the secret to true career satisfaction. So many people live unfulfilled lives because they can't find the passion for the work - but not us!

researchgoddess · 2 months ago

Chris, you and I must have had the same conversation with the same woman recently :) No way have I achieved the level of success that you have but I've come a long way in the last 3 years. I wrote a post about this very topic just last week because I get really irritated when people look at someone like you and say how 'lucky' you are because of all that you've accomplished. Luck had nothing to do with it.
My post: http://researchgoddess.wordpress.com/2009/10/07...

partywedo · 2 months ago

Working hard, spending long hours, failing at things and then trying again is what makes life so interesting...
I am grateful to people like you and other successful people who demonstrate what it takes to make something important happen "overnight", over day, over weeks, over years....

At 55, I feel blessed to live in a country that allows me to make the most of every 24-hours.

markwilliamschaefer · 2 months ago

I don't know why every comment says "wonderful" "great" "inspirational."

I'm worried about you.

You're schedule is horrendous, you're sleep deprived and, based on the schedule you posted, you can't be spending much time with your wife and kids. At some point it will take a physical toll if it hasn't already. I don't think that's wonderful or great.

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Actually, I kissed my wife and kids last night and spent some time with them before jumping on the plane. I had a few days back to back with them the day before that. I was graced by having a friend fly them out to Disneyland to spend time with me for a few days before a gig.

We're seeing each other.

And what if I work this hard for another 3 years and then can devote months at a time to my family. Still a bad gig? I say no.

The Franchise King · 2 months ago

Chris,

#1 Your hair is wet.
#2 Is this your new "elevator" speech?

The Franchise King
Joel Libava

Working towards my own overnight success, one day at a time. :)

Kevin Kopp · 2 months ago

Great message, and like others mentioned, it goes along with what Malcolm Gladwell talks about in Outliers. When I was in college, I took it for granted that I'd get a great job, and when it didn't happen, it took a couple more years of school to not only prove to myself that I could do it, but to learn how much work was required to be successful. Now that I have that great job, people tell me I'm lucky that I get to travel around the world, etc; and sometimes it's hard not to snap back.

It makes me cringe when I hear friends and relatives who are in high school and college say the same things I said, and take the same things for granted. Guess it's true that youth is wasted on the young.

PatAlexander · 2 months ago

You are so right Chris. Most people think my time on the road in glamorous. They don't see that after I leave the meeting with them, I go back to my room to answer emails, write articles or solve other client's problems. And many day the travel is challenging to say the least. There are glamorous times, but you must work really hard to get to those times. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us.

steveborgman · 2 months ago

Very eye opening to those who want things to happen like a McDonald's Drive Through. It's also extremely important that the 'success' we're after does not sacrifice our core values on the altar: family, friends, etc.

Melissa Renzi · 2 months ago

I found your blog when i searched for the top 10 advertising blogs. Found the AdAge Power 150. And the #1 was you. I was like, who is this guy? Loved your video this morning. Now I get it! I've been enjoying and sharing your work. Carry on!

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Glad you stuck around. : )

cathmary · 2 months ago

Nicholas Z Cardot said in an earlier comment that "People often fail to see the amount of work and effort that go into a successful venture."

Exactly! And I wonder if part of that is due to people not recognizing certain work AS work?

You see a guy digging ditches in the hot sun -- yeah, he's working. But the media -- and anyone on the outside looking in -- don't see activities such as (seemingly) staring into space at your laptop as you’re thinking furiously, strategizing and planning and drafting the next blog entry; getting in touch w/ people; coordinating the logistics of an event; etc. as "real" work. Especially if you’re not in a cubicle reporting for duty.

So, those activities don't count. And thus, you're not working. Therefore when you reach a level that is generating media buss, you're an “overnight” success.

Kind of like the best-selling author whose "first" novel gets published and makes it on Oprah -- but no one talks about the 6 other novels in that author's files which were stillborn, but yet taught him his craft.

Nicholas Z. Cardot · 2 months ago

That's exactly the truth. You are right on. When you watch a play and everything is fun and amazing you never even see the stagehands working furiously behind the scenes to make sure that everything keeps rolling smoothly.

Cheril Hendry · 2 months ago

I think people often tie "overnight success" in with "just got lucky". Neither is true for the Chris Brogans of the world. It takes A LOT of sacrifice, and passion. I've been working hard for 27 years to be an overnight success. Maybe someday I'll make it too.

martincasey · 2 months ago

yip an overnight success requires a lots of through the night work. Your damned if you do and F**ked if you don't. Good luck to the begrudgers...who would only wish to be an overnight success!

fogbound · 2 months ago

Thanks for sharing this. Too many people see the glory and not the hard work and commitment behind it. Too many want the overnight success without understanding the price to pay to achieve it. And the overnight success often comes after many attempts and failures but with the persistence to continue on and never give up. I commend you for your success and the hard work you put into it.

Brian · 2 months ago

Excellent/REAL post... I agree with you about having passion in something.. GREAT work... Brian-

BenSpark · 2 months ago

Hardcore man. An overnight success hardly ever has a night to themselves. See you in Vegas.

strengthware · 2 months ago

what a simple, yet true message....i have owned my own business for seven years, stressed over line of credit issues...and often worked 20 hour days first three years because it was all me.....every day is a new education...spend a lot of time saying " if i only knew then what i know now"...and a lot of my new knowledge that is making my newest venture very exciting has come from you Chris! In the short time i have been reading your stuff, i feel like I am equipped to really do great things...overnite:)

George Passwater · 2 months ago

Wonderful message Chris.

Thanks for showing us your view of overnight success. I admire your work and message that you send out. One day soon you will get some well deserved rest!

I do understand how things need time and hard work to take shape. I am not an overnight success yet but I am working on it. I go to bed around 1-3am nowadays and get up around 5:45am or so. I work different projects and jobs. From building my business to being a stay-at-home Dad to my 5 and 4-year-old with special needs, I use every waking moment to come up with new ideas for my business, doing medical research for my child and being Dad.

Thanks again Chris for showing us your view of overnight success.

karentalavera · 2 months ago

Kudos for the dose of the reality that so often gets swept under the rug. It takes persistence to live one's dream but I think a lot of people don't understand the physical realities of genuine persistence because they've never lived it. Thankfully you're modeling how.

Whatever the dream, it may be rewarding work, it may be even fun, and a person might be full of passion for it, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a price. That doesn't mean it isn't physically exhausting. And that doesn't mean we all don't think about giving up and needing a break.

And those rare cases of actual overnight (usually celebrity media-fueled) sucess usually crash and burn because since they didn't have to work to get there, they don't know how to work to stay there. (and it's gotta be worse to have had it and lost it than to never even have tried.)

Keep rollin' Chris, because you've got staying power and through it you inspire us all!

JohnAtkinson · 2 months ago

Very effective way to make your point - especially the pitch black ending.
Wish I were that coherent on 3 hrs sleep.

Andre Natta · 2 months ago

I'm getting an insane amount of support from my girlfriend to allow me to focus on getting back to writing posts and trying to put together ways to tell stories about what this is that we do and why it's so much fun. It means going to conferences whenever I can afford to so I can learn as much as possible and knowing that one day we'll get a reasonable amount of sleep. It also means being more outgoing than I normally like to be and not just hiding behind my keystrokes.

The great part about the world of overnight successes is knowing how long the journey is to get there and remembering if you ever do get "there" why you do what you do and not letting up.

Hope to see you soon...

thomsinger · 2 months ago

Chris-

This is an important message... and one people rarely think about.

It goes to success in any arena... not just having "fame",etc..

The other day someone told me they had not ever been very good at networking, and never paid much attention to it. They mentioned they hated attending "happy hours" and other networking events and conferences. They concluded by saying they were in need of work, and now quickly needed to build a network because they realize most jobs come through connections.

What? You cannot build "overnight success" or an "overnight network". These things take dedication of the soul over many years. It is like going to Hollywood. Brad Pitt did not just show up and start getting paid $20 million a movie. He started young and built a career. Key word... BUILT.

You continue to be a person who lets people look under the kimono. Thanks for your inspirational messages!

thom

juliefogg · 2 months ago

I don't think you became an Overnight Success, Chris. I think you have been working your arse off for years. I see what time you write stuff at night then see when you pick it up again in the morning. When you were in Los Angeles recently, I happened to get to see what your schedule was like for a day (which was insane) even though I already knew you are driven to a degree that many people will never understand. Your community is lucky that you consistently share your path so that the people who want more have a bread crumb trail to follow if they so desire. People can change and can learn and you regularly provide valuable information so that the people coming up behind you on the ladder can follow. Good job on choosing the smoothie over the pizza the other night. Sugar (and salt!!) is fuel for momentum but eventually the skinny jeans won't fit. ;)

@juliefogg

Sommer @greenmom · 2 months ago

I think this is probably one of my favorite posts ever. In your video you can tell you're tired but your moving on and pushing forward because of what you believe in. People need to recognize that they might WANT to be some place professionally but that it comes with hours and hours of HARD work. Great job Chris!

joanpball · 2 months ago

I read this post and, while I respect you Chris and love to read your work, I couldn't help but think that there has to be another way. I posted another perspective here http://ow.ly/ulsa .

Allisoncds · 2 months ago

First time a blog post prompted a blog post that prompted me to post.
(Chris Brogan ---> Joan Ball ---> Me)

My comment (thoughts): http://bit.ly/1sqVYy

petemonfre · 2 months ago

Chris,

It reminds me of the music business. People thought it was so glamorous because all they saw was the crowds, the lights and the dancing hippie chicks. But after they left the venue, they missed the exhaustion, the packing up of a ton of equipment, the venue manager who decides to pay you in beer (after the contract was signed months before) the unloading of the equipment after a long drive dodging drunks on the freeway, the tireless promotion, publicity appearances, rehearsals, etc.

Enzoology is the same. Lots of rewarding stuff - equal amounts of hard work.

Next time we have lunch together, we're not having salads. We are having big, greasy bacon cheeseburgers with fries. We deserve it.

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

My 7 year old is now ALSO in love with Enzo. Lock that kid up, man. : )

petemonfre · 2 months ago

He's actually a robot that hypnotizes kids to do his evil will. I built him in my garage using tinker toys and an old erector set.

E. Christopher Clark · 2 months ago

Chris, this was really heartening. Last week at work was like this for me every day -- I was running a conference -- and being reminded that the work ethic I'm building now is directly relatable to the kind of work ethic you have (and that many of the other "overnight successes" out there probably have) is quite encouraging.

Tim Hayden · 2 months ago

Sending one last message, making one more call, eeking out 2-3 more hours of each day...focus, engage, deliver....and there's still room to pursue passions and hobbies

Seeing as it was less than 12 hours ago since I left you guys in Portland, I appreciate the message and empathize with you.

It may be just as well to state that innovation does not take a nap and that we stand to be lapped if we dare to be idle. Each day I wake up, I see that the cards have been shuffled and my best way to win is to play more hands with both calculated and ballsy wagers. Game on!

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Get ready to live. Oddly, that's really starting to ring bells with me. : )

gerardmclean · 2 months ago

Love this video! Short and makes a damn good point. Everybody wants to be a rock star, but very few want to learn how to read music.

Christine Green · 2 months ago

Chris,
I’m not (yet) an overnight success financially, but I am an overnight success in terms of being pursued by potential clients. (I’m being a bit facetious with the term success – but it’s all relative) So, I am in that space between the breath; that cosmic void…working very hard writing proposals and offering a lot of free initial consults. And now waiting…and wondering – do I have what it takes to pull this off? I know that I do, but I saw how tired you looked at IMS last week and knew that you were not getting enough sleep or very much time with your family. And I did reflect on the question of whether that kind of sacrifice is required? Apparently it is. I think I’ll take “slightly famous” for now. Please don’t let your self-care take too much of a back seat - and as I'm sure you hear almost daily - “put the oxygen mask on yourself first!”

Carolyn Winter · 2 months ago

There is no such thing as an overnight success. I once read that on average it takes a minimum of 7 years. In the "Outliers" Gladwell describes how it takes an average of 10,000 hours to get good at what you are doing.

Chris, - I appreciate your work, your drive, and what you bring to the world and for
letting us see you as a real person, with a family life, lovely values and commitment for what you do.

Mark Kolier · 2 months ago

The concept of overnight success should quantified in terms of biblical nights and days. People continually ask me where do I find the time to run business, write articles, post to my blog, comment on others. Like you Chris, the last time I checked I had the same 24 hours per day as everyone else. It's all about the choices you make. And what is today will not be tomorrow. Thanks for the post.

MichaelCantone · 2 months ago

Chris,
Thanks for appreciation of the saying, "Careful what you wish for!".
Thanks

Kevin D. Lyons · 2 months ago

Travel, speaking, writing, notoriety, acknowledgment, all seem more glorious to spectators than doers. They are found on roads less traveled.

Oh, try a magnesium supplement before bed to help with falling asleep.

Preston · 2 months ago

Great post and video Chris!

What are YOU doing to succeed?
I work one full-time job as a documentation specialist, teach one course per quarter online for the UCSD Extension program, do some free work for a company trying to get started, study my craft, and pray. I go to bed late and get up five to six hours later.

What would you tell the people who say that you make it look easy? Walk with me. I cannot do this alone. Work with me as I work. Learn that my strength comes from the God who created me, those I serve, and a passion for doing something I enjoy very well.

Preston

tannerc · 2 months ago

As simple as a message that this is Chris, it's still inspirational (and motivational) to hear it from you.

Susan/Together We Flourish · 2 months ago

I'm curious as to how long it took you to become "an overnight success"?

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

11 years and counting. : )

Scott Bowman · 2 months ago

Clearly, you have to love what you are doing, witnessed by the fact you dozed off at 3am, only to be back up and on your way by 6am.

Desiree Scales · 2 months ago

If anyone wants to know what it takes to create an overnight success, read Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. 10,000 hours of work, patience, belief in yourself and guts to do things most humans fear with a bit of luck mixed in not to mention the support from family and friends (especially significant others--thanks Rob!) Glad you are leading the way and had the guts to create this video. (You don't want to see me at 5:45 am, TRUST me!)

Adam Teece · 2 months ago

Chris,

Thank you for telling it how it is. I'm not quite there yet, and I will be. Maybe not as famous and I am fine with that. I will have a very good income from working my passion and helping the people I do. It both scares and excites me knowing even some of the possibilities that are out there. Thanks again Chris.

Juliet · 2 months ago

Hi

Very well done - thank you.
Just wondering what your definition of "overnight success" is? One month? One year?

Thanks,
Juliet

mmyerspalio · 2 months ago

Being an overnight success requires some amount of luck. And as Seneca said "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."

James Whatley · 2 months ago

Good words.

Daniel Decker · 2 months ago

BTW... love the graphic header for this post. Dope.

intuitiv · 2 months ago

Chris, you need some sleep being powerful again.

Stefan

iconic88 · 2 months ago

Thanks Chris, you're an iceberg like many 'successful' people brother.

Success is the result of the 2/3rds of hard work and sacrifice that people don't see like missing your family before they sleep.

You asked: "What would you tell the people who say that you make it look easy? Let’s talk about your overnight success, shall we?"

I'd say I succeeded because of the support of my family to enable me to pursue my dream. Success wasn't easy but it was an enjoyable ride.

sais_aramis · 2 months ago

and then there is Tim Ferris,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timothy_Ferriss

and those I meet who are spending less and working less. Makes you check your definition of success.

Stephen Baugh · 2 months ago

Not wanting to argue but, I'm not sure I agree with this. If you watch some of Tim's videos you get to know he actually applies himself pretty hard, and seems to be a really determined and focused person. His "work" is an issue of semantics, as he said in one of the videos he has on his blog when speaking at a wordpress conference. something like "I don't count the stuff I love as work"

Chris loves his work to ... "so arguably" isn't actually working hard either ... but it looks like his passion is wearing him down at the moment.

Dale Cruse · 2 months ago

I remember when you were just an IT middle manager who wore a red rubber ball on his nose!

Damond Nollan · 2 months ago

I don't think I have the answer to the "overnight success" story, but I do know that success can come in many different shapes and sizes. The question we should ask ourselves is, "What does success mean to me?" Once we have a picture in our minds of this "success" then we can better plan our steps to achieve it.

Thanks for sharing!

startabuzz · 2 months ago

Chris, this may be one of your most potent and poignant posts ever, for me. I have a lot to say on this one ... but I have to gather some thoughts first. But I just wanted to say that this one really touched me. And I thank you for that.

GaryBloomer · 2 months ago

Chris,

Four words: I feel your pain.

As T.E. Lawrence is alleged to have said as he was asked what was the trick and why he wasn't being burned, or why it didn't hurt as he held his hand over the open flame of a candle, Lawrence said "The trick? The trick is not minding!"

Making it look easy is all about not minding the crap, the late nights, the blurred vision, the aches, the pains, the sore fingers from typing, and the bouncing from cab to plane to hotel (or whatever one's own version of this might be). The life style of Aerosmith looks great until you realize they've been doing it for over 30 years and that for MANY of those years, they slept in old vans and cheap, flea-ridden motels and ate crappy food before playing in sweaty dives to 15 drunks and three hookers.

15 years ago I gave a presentation to about 70 people. My pitch was called "Making it look easy!" and it was all about creating exhibits in museums, which is what I do when I'm not building my credibility online.

Let's be honest here: the banner of "an overnight success" is a BS term created
by the main stream media so that they can have something to write about. Instant success, "just add water, makes its own sauce" is a myth—a nice myth—but a myth never the less.

Five years ago I was working on a major gallery overhaul. We'd spent $5 million bucks and I'd asked for 8 weeks to get the show back together, to test all the AV and lighting, and to iron out all the bugs. I was given THREE WEEKS. On the second or third day a younger co-worker was sitting down, mopping her brow. I asked if she was OK. She said "Man! This is HARD work!"

No shit Sherlock. Welcome to my world.

Making things happen IS hard work. It takes COMMITMENT, EFFORT, and GRAFT. That's why the ones with TRUE GRIT are the ones that become the top players: because they stick at it.

Just yesterday I learned I'm now the # 1 contributing "Expert" on Social Media over at Marketing Profs http://bit.ly/15IAvh . Lots of people helped me do this, one of whom is YOU. No way I could have done it alone. So, I'm making progress. It might take me longer to make it, but I'm working on it.

When you sit down at the top table, do me a favour.

Save me a seat.

kathrynlang · 2 months ago

"just making sure the message you believe in with all your heart" - thanks for that. It reminded me that it's about the message and the words and touching the life of just one person.

Keep up the good work!

Mary Ann Halford · 2 months ago

Chris, thanks for being authentic about what it takes as well . . .I will be replaying this video a lot - for my own inspiration! Thanks and make sure you get some sleep every now and then! :)

alisoncreamer · 2 months ago

Great clip and so true. I think he real success is actually making it look easy as well. I get asked all the time how do you have time for all this ? Really you make time for what is in your heart. I have a passion for my career ,media, and not new media. Thanks for the clip it rang a bell for me as well !!!! Success does start early and makes sacrifices !

(D) Kai Wilson · 2 months ago

I'm getting there. I'm becoming more well known in my field (forensic linguistics), and I'm building, slowly, all of the contacts I need. I'm not a success *yet* but I'll hit the catalyst at some point, and when I do, I'm already mostly ready, or at least I hope I am. And I think what makes it all the sweeter is I'm working for it. I don't believe in 'overnight' success - I believe in sustained effort. And that's why I love reading your stuff - you've kept going and kept going and you're good at what you do. I hope to do just as well when I'm in your position (and I will be, just you watch) in my own field of work ;)

jayberkowitz · 2 months ago

I'm with you brother! I went to bed at 1:30 last night. I had a bunch of new ideas for my presentation running through my head, I couldn't sleep, here I am back at the keyboard at 6:15. I worked on 14 different projects last night before turning in.

I turned off the tv and watched some great marketing videos instead of sports (this one was very compelling Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg Keynote at Brandweek http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=55385... ).

I worked on a blog post about the conference, I worked on an upcoming webinar, I worked on a few client projects, I worked on a new community website, I prepared my audio equipment so I can record conversations with Trust Agents like Mr. Chris Brogan for a podcast, I Tweeted and ReTweeted, I Facebooked, I reviewed resumes, I created a new logo, I packed my "I'm not a blogger I just tweet a lot" t-shirt, etc. etc.

If am am lucky to be an overnight success one-tenth as famous as Chris Brogan one day I will have earned it one keystroke at a time. :)

debevans · 2 months ago

Great reality video! I'm working hard on my success which at the time consists of getting through the daily tasks of being a leader. I enjoy following your hard work and success on Twitter, blogs and newsletters and with each new post you give me something to think about. Thank you!

whitneyhoffman · 2 months ago

What you do may look really easy to others, mostly because it's hard for them, or they can't imagine themselves doing the same thing. I always think about that when people say, sincerely "How do you do all of that??" and I think "Because it's what I NEED to do"- not for money, but to make a difference and make a change- to make the world just a bit better in any way I can.

Jamie Flinchbaugh · 2 months ago

Well said. Hopefully people can't stop expecting that after sending out their first tweet or blog post that a check will magically show up in the mailbox. Success requires working smart and hard. Too bad the media only tells the end of most success stories, and skips over the multi-year grind it takes to get there. Thanks for saying this.

Nicholas Z. Cardot · 2 months ago

People often fail to see the amount of work and effort that go into a successful venture.

"The heights by great men reached and kept Were not attained by sudden flight, But they, while their companions slept, Were toiling upward in the night."
~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Dave Doolin · 2 months ago

I haven't seen it said in these comments:

"Overnight success takes 20 years."

Nicholas, when I first saw your blog, I was like "Who is this guy?" It's very clear you put in a LOT of work behind the scenes before taking it live.

Nicholas Z. Cardot · 2 months ago

Thanks Dave. I sure have. Chris definitely knows what he's talking about on this subject. That is for sure.

Damian Saunders · 2 months ago

You are certainly working hard Chris, sometimes I find myself feeling exhausted just reading your posts. I'm wondering if this is the way it's going to be for you for the long term? Will you actually know when you have achieved success, is there an end goal?
Overnight success is a perception experienced by people who have no idea what it took for you to get to where you are right now.
I think success is a journey, not a destination, my personal approach is that as long as I can be on the journey and work from places anywhere in the world, as long as the work is stimulating, exciting and doesn't feel like work then I'm on the right path.
I might work long hours, but I can go Surfing any time I like - that's success (the journey) to me.

Rob Babiak · 2 months ago

Being successful is a TON of hard work and people think it happens in two seconds. They never see all of the behind the scene struggles that take place prior to all of the success. If you want to be good and successful at something which is hard to do you need to put in the work because their are no short cuts and people need to relaize that.

Thanks for sharing!

Kyle Reed · 2 months ago

I am just starting something that needs hundreds of thousands of hours into it. Thanks for calling this out, because it seems that all overnight success is literally happening over night. But in all reality it happens over time and I needed to hear that.

Chris Catania · 2 months ago

It's funny how much I hear that successful people don't watch a lot of TV and don't sleep because it seems to be the other way around for the unsuccessful folks. Many people don't want to have the trade off because it's scaring and hard.

That video was short and very inspiring--Thanks for sharing! Looking forward to hearing you speak at BlogWorld. Hopefully we can connect and chat about being an "overnight success." ;)

GreenStar · 2 months ago

Really great points in the video. I found myself thinking about this today as well when I went to bed at 5am and ended up waking up at 7am and got right back to work. It's weird, but I don't feel normal unless I am running at this pace.

linda lopeke · 2 months ago

Dear Chris,

All successful people know there is no such thing as "overnight success". Our success comes from the willingness to commit to consistently doing the things average people will not. These are rarely easy or convenient. A price is always paid for that of course, and sometimes not just by us.

I know first hand how hard you are working having walked that path myself. Every success you have is earned and it makes me happy to see your hard work rewarded. The "overnight success" thing made me laugh (ouch) -- it's so not true. Never has been; never will be.

Keep up the great work! (But take care of your health too.)

My own stuff has ground to a halt as I've been sidelined by injuries from a recent accident but I will continue to promote your work and contribution to the industry. It makes me feel less helpless while I'm out of commission and seems a good use of my time. Besides, sometimes helping others is often the best medicine when recovering from tragic circumstances. <smile>

Linda M. Lopeke
The SMARTSTART Coach

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Appreciate the kind words, Linda. Thanks for visiting me.

Bill Dwight · 2 months ago

Generally agreed with all the points made and really love the creative approach taken with the video.

But... Remember, it's a marathon not a sprint. Except when it comes to your kids: they're off to their own races in a blink of an eye. You only get one chance to enjoy their wonder years and guide them when they're young and impressionable. Don't miss out completely, or I suspect you will regret it in the long run.

That said, everyone has different balance points that work for them and their families and their goals, so not trying to get all "preachy" here. Just some thoughts from an "old-school" silicon valley Dad and entrepreneur who believes that balance warrants some reflection from time to time.

intuitiv · 2 months ago

wise words...
Thank you for that.

Stefan

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

I kiss those little bastards as often as I can. Keep an eye on my flickr stream: http://flickr.com/photos/chrisbrogan . They're in there lots, if only as proof that I'm really home some times.

Derek Showerman · 2 months ago

Chris, interesting post. I posted my own reply to your post with an eye on balance , strategy and the need to narrow your SM focus once critical mass is established. http://derekshowerman.com/2009/10/14/chris-brog...

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Definitely good points, Derek. Just not ready to narrow, yet.

Michelle Moss · 2 months ago

Overnight success equals consistency. You have to plant, plant, plant and plant some more, whether it is time, finances, energy, creativity etc. Sowing seeds toward destiny and purpose is hard work, but if the mindset of each individual is not toward displaying the beauty that's inside which is reflected in the ability displayed on the outside, what's the use. Be encouraged, keep pushing and know that God's original purpose for our lives is GREAT (Jeremiah 29:11), go for it! Appreciated the post :)

Nigel Walsh · 2 months ago

I just spent 10 mins trying to finds your quote, I forgot to fav it and then of course - your here already.. Its early evening here in the UK and I'm working harder on that luck!

chrismingryan · 2 months ago

This video works because it is raw and uncensored. Was it Kodak Z, Flip or your Lumix? Thanks for the message and the kick in the pants!

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

It's my Lumix DMC-LX3k. My baby. : )

chrismingryan · 2 months ago

Awesome lens. I need one!

littlemissknowitall · 2 months ago

I LOVE IT!! I just signed a deal with a local media/radio company and I get this comment all the time. They think I just wrote a pitch and showed up on the tv and radio one day-and that anyone can do it. I studied PR and journalism in college more than 15 years ago, spent five years in the political media field, and have been blogging for more than three. I work more than 60 hours a week at what I do, yet the jealousy and backbiting over me 'getting all the attention for doing nothing' grows. And then I have those who want to be bloggers approach me to blog with/for me, and they seem to think they're going to make hundreds of dollars the first month and get invited on all these blogger trips as soon as they make their first post. I turn on the computer at 9 am as the kids get on the bus, and I turn it off at 2 am most nights. At least four hours a day of research goes into what I do--I don't just walk into the radio studio and make it up as I go. There are scripts to be written, details to be confirmed, press releases read and more.

I love to train newcomers to the field and even host the sites for several as they grow and learn. I send reporters out to 'competitors' because I like to see others get recognition for their hard work. But I'm honest too--this is not easy. Its not so easy to know what to say on camera or when a DJ is teasing you on air. Its not so easy to get three hours of sleep and then sound like a peppy cheerleader at 9 am on the radio. And you will sacrifice something while building this.

You're right--no hobbies, no downtime, no sleep. Thank you for sharing this!

LoriJ_VA · 2 months ago

Well, definitely my success has not been overnight. It has come later in life after raising 3 children to be successful. My main priortity when the kids were home was just to be sure that we did everything to put them on a good path for a life that would be lived with purpose and with enjoyment. Now they have all graduated from college and the best paycheck I have ever received is the gratitude from our kids. I used to think I was a failure because I wasn't living up to my potential as a career woman and business woman but once I stood up for my passion for my family I began to relax and enjoy the journey. And very quickly that one is over and now I have moved on with more speed to rebuild my business. I know that there are other who have achieved so much so young but I am very happy because now I realize that time is relative. Achieving success now at 50 is just as great as it would be if I was 30. Plus, I have all my time back for doing what I want without having to put my family on the back burnner. About making it look easy, who cares what others see. I don't want others to define my life for me. If it's hard but it looks easy so what. My reward is doing what I know I should be doing with this one and only life now and praying that some of what I do will last beyond me to help point people in the right direction. Who wants overnight success anyway? We all know that we appreciate more the things that cost us something rather than that costs us nothing. The criteria I used to figure out what and who I should pay then rested on understanding what has the most lasting value and what would hurt me the most if I lost it due to neglect.

Bryan Smith · 2 months ago

I'll add my voice to the naysayers. I have trouble understanding the 'great job' high-5's from so many. I kept finding myself watching the video out of the corner of my eye, the way bystanders view a car wreck.

I have chosen and built a business that keeps me away from home for three months out of the year, but that means that for nine months I am home with my family and part of their lives 24/7. I see them more than the average 9 to 5er sees their family. My wife recently took a 30% pay cut to take a job that gives her almost half the year off.

Sure, we could work longer hours and acquire more stuff -- a bigger house, nicer cars, expensive toys. This is not my view of success. At some point you have to ask yourself: if this is the fruit of the message you believe in with all your heart, maybe it's the wrong message. For a different view of success, try this: http://bit.ly/1on82d

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Interesting way to interpret it. Instead, I'm saying, "If you think this is all roses, be ready to put in your grind." Not glory. Just the hustle.

David Baeza · 2 months ago

As the saying goes, "decide what you want, and be willing to pay the price." Easy to say, hard to do. It's the second step that most people don't take. Time away from home, friends, family and living in airports and hotels. Oh yea, and do it for years. Keep it up Chris, it's paying off and you're changing businesses for the better along the way.

Chris Brogan · 2 months ago

Thanks, David. I'm not unhappy with what I've chosen. Instead, I've decided to make sure people realize that it isn't always sugar and snow cones.

Not saying it's hard and I hate it. Saying, "if you want this, there's work in it."

Steven Fisher · 2 months ago

Like my Dad alway says "it takes 20 years to be an overnight success". I have known you for the last few years and know how hard you worked before you became the "overnight success" label the press likes to use because they weren't paying attention. I will know you for many years to come. Just keep doing what you do.
-Steve

Erik Wennerstrom · 2 months ago

Great video Chris. I think it speaks for itself.

Ben Shute · 2 months ago

Chris, I honestly think that this 1 minute of video should be compulsory viewing for anyone who wants to do business online - particularly for those who fall for the "make $30K today on Twitter" type sells.

While "overnight success" is a tough and lengthy process, I think that success breeds success - and not just in terms of business success either. For me, having a young family for me is my greatest measure of success and joy, and it drives me to be more successful in what I do for work in order to enrich their lives.

In a business sense, getting some great comments on my blog from people who inspire and drive me, or writing a piece of content that just seems to resonate with a wide range of people is another measure of success.

Focussing on the smaller successes really helps pave the way to that overnight success - it keeps you inspired until you get there.

Great post, thank you!

Jim Long · 2 months ago

Dude, don't forget to rest and take care of yourself, seriously. Great seeing you at #ims09!

Christopher Thiede · 2 months ago

Dang. I gotta get to work.

Lin · 2 months ago

Hello

I responded to the comment you made on Joan Ball's blog (she wasn't buying what you said): http://blog.beliefnet.com/flirtingwithfaith/200...

As I didn't know if you'd be back there to read my question, here it is again! :-)

QUOTE:
Chris wrote: "I'm chasing a much bigger vision of what the world COULD be... something bigger than what's established."

I'd love to hear more about what this vision actually is. I'm just one of the common folk out there, at the mercy of advertisers and marketers, and when I look at your site, Chris, all I see is someone who has hopped on the social media bandwagon and is making a huge success of helping people and businesses make even more money out of people like me!!

How does that translate into a bigger vision for the world? What kind of bigger? Does bigger mean better? And if so, what kind of better? I'd really like to hear - and I'm not being snide or sarcastic, I'm genuinely interested!
END QUOTE

Thanks!! :-)
Lin

Allisoncds · 2 months ago

First time a blog post prompted a blog post that prompted me to post.
(Chris Brogan ---> Joan Ball ---> Me)

My comment (thoughts): http://bit.ly/1sqVYy

Jeremy Victor · 2 months ago

Your drive is inspiring and a reminder to me that you must take advantage of every possible minute you have to be a success.

For all of us entrepreneurs that are aspiring to fulfill our dreams, this video was unnecessary. Could anyone actually believe that overnight success was possible? Wouldn't it be better rather to celebrate your success with you, than criticize it?

Continued Success Chris, I have learned a lot from you already and I look forward to learning more.

Chuckumentary · 2 months ago

No offense to Mr. Brogan, but I prefer P. Twitty's delivery of the same message. :-D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81UZgJAkRik

work at home · 2 months ago

I can not dream for overnight success, because it is not happen in real.
The truth in blogging is that share the genuine information to your reader and success is on your hand.

Stephen Baugh · 2 months ago

Awesome Chris ... Thanks for sharing your life and your passion with us. It's pretty inspiring and I love the stuff you're saying about authenticity and the need to collaborate. I whole heartily agree.

Make sure you find some balance though, or the shine will start to where off :-)

And don't be frustrated with the people who say you've got it easy.

I think I know where you're at, but they probably don't. While most people are asleep nice and cosy in their beds, I bet you continue to burn the midnight oil. Not just to get up for a plane but so that you can honor those that have honored you by responding to their emails etc.

You have have my deep respect for your effort and very real sacrifice.

Brochure Printing · 2 months ago

I won't say that I am successful already. I'm just starting to live in the world full of competition and opportunity. But IMO, my openness towards learning necessary skills is the best tool that I use to find success. :)

Jeremy Jenkins · 2 months ago

Overnight success? Must have been the longest night of your life. :-)

Dave Pelland · 2 months ago

Awesome video and a neat message, Chris. The look and feel, especially at the end, could've been a Nike commercial.

migwickert · 2 months ago

Chris,

Appreciate what you do. 11 years and counting... that's amazing. Congrats. Also, you post on how to blog almost everyday was extremely useful. Thanks!

Brandi Heinz · 2 months ago

Chris - Keep up the great work - You're an inspiration and the information you share is invaluable. This video struck a cord with me and made me take a step back and remember what everything I do is for (even when all I want to do is curl up and watch a movie)!

lisamerlobooth · 2 months ago

It's refreshing to hear the real behind the scenes story of becoming an "overnight success". It seems that this term is truly an oxymoron. I've been working hard to build my platform, speak, write a book etc. and I've been shocked by how much work it truly takes. As far as I'm concerned, there is no such thing as an overnight success.
Thanks for being it real.

lisamerlobooth · 2 months ago

How refreshing to hear what it truly takes to be an "overnight success". As far as I'm concerned I think the term overnight success is an oxymoron:-). I've been working on building my platform via, twitter, book, blog, speaking etc. and I've been struck by the amount of work that truly goes on behind the scenes! Thanks for being real and telling it how it truly is!
Now go spend some time with your kids...the world will wait:-)

jimi jones · 2 months ago

Everyone can be an overnight success, it's just that some overnights last for years. :-)

I enjoyed that video and I feel you on those short nights, but this is what is required when we want to be successful and are dedicated to our craft.

Mike V. · 2 months ago

Chris,

Obviously on your way to #bwe09 and glad I was there and able to hear you speak.

You know, I was a bored Team Leader of 15 federal contract investigators before 02/15/09 when I started my iPhone app review website.

The next 5 months were a blur, just like you describe in this video. I gained an awesome promotion, raise, etc and now I am implementing social media into a mid size corporation with 4 divisions and about 8,000 employees.

But, after starting a new website, I feel the iPhone site is not "professional" enough, only thing holding me back is the paltry advertising $'s I get from my iTunes iPhone podcast $60 monthly.

Either way, #bwe09 helped me to focus on what works and quality, so hopefully, I will take another leap into social media going forward.

thanks

Mike Vallez
@michaelvallez
@crazymikesapps

Chris Brogan · 1 month ago

You, sir, are well on your way. Pick up those chips you made at this first table and bring them to the next table.

Fruitfulvine2 · 2 months ago

Lesson learned. I'm encouraged. I'm going to keep working hard. Thank you.

Rui Nunes · 2 months ago

Hi Chris,

I've been reading specially your newsletter because I sincerely need to filter some of content I absorve through the various sources, and newsletters are a way to not miss the opportunity to read the articles and still make my own time to do so.
But back to the question, let me give my experience on this matter of "Overnight Success".
This assumption of an overnight success only comes from people that don't know you very well. This is the first time that they get to know you or have you in a serious perspective because you've become relevant for a very special group of people named "Trust Agents" - this term rings any bell. (I've bought your book from Amazon).
For most people you're always be someone that come out from nowhere to stardom. But then again, that's what they think about Google founders, or Facebook founders, or twitter founders, or... whatever.
But reality is that the hard work is always a base for a successful career. You're become this reference because you had this base for several years and personal efforts or sacrifices.
People come to me and say that I'm a lucky guy as I'm a Country Manager of a prosperous marketing company, leader in several countries including my own. But this an achievement made by sweat, long nights and brain damages ;-).
I just nod and say: "Yes, you're right! I'm very lucky to be in such a company... and they're very lucky to have me!"

My family understands and support me. That's my base from where I operate.
Best for you...

Rui Nunes · 2 months ago

Hi Chris,

I've been reading specially your newsletter because I sincerely need to filter some of content I absorve through the various sources, and newsletters are a way to not miss the opportunity to read the articles and still make my own time to do so.
But back to the question, let me give my experience on this matter of "Overnight Success".
This assumption of an overnight success only comes from people that don't know you very well. This is the first time that they get to know you or have you in a serious perspective because you've become relevant for a very special group of people named "Trust Agents" - this term rings any bell. (I've bought your book from Amazon).
For most people you're always be someone that come out from nowhere to stardom. But then again, that's what they think about Google founders, or Facebook founders, or twitter founders, or... whatever.
But reality is that the hard work is always a base for a successful career. You're become this reference because you had this base for several years and personal efforts or sacrifices.
People come to me and say that I'm a lucky guy as I'm a Country Manager of a prosperous marketing company, leader in several countries including my own. But this an achievement made by sweat, long nights and brain damages ;-).
I just nod and say: "Yes, you're right! I'm very lucky to be in such a company... and they're very lucky to have me!"

My family understands and support me. That's my base from where I operate.
Best for you...

Chris Brogan · 1 month ago

Exactly. Luck favors those who work 10,000 hours on being lucky. : )

Jezra · 1 month ago

Thank you, Chris. This is poignant and inspiring.

Prova · 1 month ago

Great video. I wish everyone understood the value of hard work, offering value to your customers day in & day out, starting small, & building your company with good values.

CarlosHernandez · 1 month ago

It was great to see you again and chat a few times at Blog World in Las Vegas recently.

Overnight success?

Well, I am 52 years old and was told by a recruiter in the fall of 2007 that I was not "It" anymore, despite my Stanford engineering degree and 28 years of corporate consultative selling experience.

Smartly, I realized where I was behind and luckily was introduced into the social media world at Blog World 2007 where I met many who have grown to be my mentors. Thanks to them and you, I have been able to "to learn new tricks for an old dog" to help my fellow Boomer overcome fears about how to use the social technologies for professional and business reasons.

Thanks for being a role model.

I will leaving my home in the dark on October 27 to catch a plane and participate with the community at "140 Characters Conference" in Los Angeles and it will be dark when I return too.

The price of learning.

My motivation is simple...to stay in the game.

johnslevin · 1 month ago

I recently heard a guy by the name of Steve Gilliland talk about "enjoying the ride". He uses humor very well through out his talk. Steve preaches that if you wake up every day and don't have a passion for what you are doing, you forget why you are doing it, you hate the who you are doing it with...then its time to check your passion. He says "Love what you do; love why you do it; love who you do it with." CB, you have passion and that is something that can be contagious. When you and people like Steve do what you do and share that with us - we want more and want to do that as well. Thanks

zionaetzion · 1 month ago

There is only one side of Chris Brogan...Consistent and real.

I appreciate you and your good sense values.

This is how you come over and it is wonderful that you keep
your head in focus and use a good heart to guide you.

Great what you did with "The Loveless Family"

Christian Russell · 1 month ago

With content like this, it's just no wonder you have a bestseller. That's just badass :)

drhwa · 1 month ago

I love your question: "What are you doing to succeed?"
I believe that this question makes people successful.
I hope that people would use it as their success mantra.

LindaCSmith · 1 month ago

I read somewhere last year that "transparency" was the requisite for the "new" social media and Chris, you are nothing if not transparent and it is so appreciated. While learning to blog I turned to yours time and again. About the only thing I would say is that I'm one of probably only one person on the planet not a fan of videos doing all the talking...I simply don't take the time; I'd rather read, so lately I think I'm missing out on your gems of wisdom. I don't put videos of myself talking on my blog 'cause I'm not very eloquent out of mouth...but I can "talk" writing. Oh well.

calebgalaraga · 1 month ago

For beginners like me, this shows what it's going to take us to get there. Reality bites that it seems that there's a huge road before us- before we even get near to where you are. You painted a down to earth, reality check picture- one that we can always keep in our heads as we tread upon the route to real "overnight success."

jeux xbox 360 · 1 month ago

Definitely right, success doesn't come easy. The question to answer: do you really want success? All this time you spend doing this, doing that, away from your family, without having time for hobbies etc. Is it worth it? Everyone must answer for himself I guess.

appareil photo etanche · 1 month ago

Definitely right, success doesn't come easy. The question to answer: do you really want success? All this time you spend doing this, doing that, away from your family, without having time for hobbies etc. Is it worth it? Everyone must answer for himself I guess.

Stew Shaw · 2 weeks ago

Chris, this excerpt from your REAL life is pretty touching and you're showing us where the rubber really meets the road in laying the foundation for entrepreneurial success. Do I want to put in that sort of single-minded effort? Yes! Using yet a third metaphor, I'm hardly on my way to 1st base yet, but I know what's NOT consuming my time. I'm so focused on what I know I have to do that I no longer watch any TV, not even the daily news. I used to spend a lot of time reading online newspapers; not any more. Thanks so much. I feel for all you guys/gals with young kids.